Jack Huston Is The New “Ben-Hur”

“Boardwalk Empire” star Jack Huston has scored the title role in Timur Bekmambetov’s upcoming “Ben-Hur” remake at MGM Studios and Paramount Pictures.

The new adaptation of Lew Wallace’s 1880 novel focuses on a falsely accused nobleman who survives years of slavery to take vengeance on his best friend Messala who betrayed him. Both have to choose between retribution and forgiveness.

The key role of Messala is to be cast next. Morgan Freeman came onboard recently as Ildarin, the character who teaches Ben-Hur to become a champion chariot racer. Also still to be cast is Jesus Christ whose story parallels with Ben-Hur in the film.

Huston beat out Tom Hiddleston who was reportedly linked to the project last month, but at the time the “Thor” actor was considering several offers.

No word on a production start date, but the film is targeting a February 26th 2016 release.